Best of the Matterhorn Trek

Question 1

What is the average distance and altitude gain that we will hike each day?

Answer

The average distance and altitude gain each day is given below. Please note that times are approximate and will vary from group to group. Routes may also vary slightly if the guide deems it necessary due to conditions or the group's overall need.

Question 2

What experience do I need to have? How fit do I need to be? Is this program suitable for children or older people?

Answer

You do not require hut-to-hut hiking experience to join this trip. It is however helpful if you have experience hiking and a reasonable level of fitness. You need to be able to hike for up to 8 hours carrying a rucksack. It is recommended that you train for this trip and become comfortable carrying a rucksack weighing 5-7kg. A positive attitude will go a long way to helping you get the most out of this trip.

Question 3

How can I get to the trailhead/meeting point?

Answer

Your guide will meet you in Randa, in the Zermatt valley.

The best way to get to our meeting point in Randa is by train. These run regularly and connect to the mainline routes to Geneva and Zurich airports. Please use www.sbb.ch for information on trains.

Parking is also available should you wish to use it.

Question 4

How will accommodation and meals be handled during the trek?

Answer

Our accommodation is in mountain huts along the route. Rooms are mixed, dormitory style with shared bathrooms. Private room supplements are not available on this trip. Showers, snacks and electricity are available, sometimes at an extra cost. Not all huts have wifi.

Question 5

Are there any other special requirements such as permits/insurance/vaccines that I need to consider before the tour?

Answer

Everyone should be insured. If, in the event of an accident, you should need to be rescued from the mountain, the bills can add up to a small fortune. Even a quick visit to a hospital can be expensive if you're not insured. You should be insured up to 3000m.

Question 6

What is the best time of the year for this hike?

Answer

This hike is a summer season hike. The huts open on the final weekend of June, and generally close mid-September.

Question 7

Can I join a group?

Answer

Of course! Our groups operate at a maximum size of 14. They are generally made up from a mix of small groups, couples and single travellers.

Question 8

What happens in the event of bad weather?

Answer

Be sure that you are prepared for bad weather. You should have good waterproofs and warm layers in your backpack. In many cases you will continue with the hike.

Question 9

What Should I Pack?

Answer

Documents

• Passport

• Travel insurance details

• Boarding passes for flights

• Cash – Euro and Swiss Franc 150 Euros and 150 CHF each person.

• Credit/Debit Card

Sleeping

• Sleeping bag liner (you can buy for 25 CHF from your guide)

Footwear

• Trekking boots: 3 or 4-season lightweight

• Lightweight shoes for the evenings (such as flip-flops, sandals, etc.)

Clothing

Please bring non-cotton, fast-drying clothing for trekking.

• 2 T-shirts for the hike

• 1 pair of hiking trousers: we recommend a pair that zip off into shorts.

• 4 pairs of socks for hiking

• 3 - 4 pairs of underwear

• Optional fleece

• Light, down or Primaloft jacket

• Rain and windproof jacket with hood

• Rain and windproof trousers

• Comfortable trousers for the evening

• 1 comfortable top for the evening

• Light Weight Hat and gloves

• Bathing suit (optional)

Other

• A daysack: 35 - 45 litres – all your kit should fit in this bag

• Walking poles. These are available to rent for 10 CHF. You can get them from your guide on arrival.

• Travel towel

• Dry Liner or Dry Bag

• Water bottle/s: At least 2L

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen and additional sun protection such as a baseball cap or similar

• Personal medication – Inhaler, Blister pads, etc

• General toiletries, Contact lenses, and Glasses (if needed)

• Electronics - Phone, charging cable & USB plug (Swiss compatible ones are available to purchase)

• Lipsalve

Question 10

Do I have to carry everything? Are there luggage transfers? Is there luggage storage?

Answer

Yes, you need to carry everything you require for the trip. There are no luggage transfers available on this trip. Should you have extra luggage it is possible to leave it with the hotel at our meet point. Your guide will help you to arrange this. Alternatively, if you are staying nearby before your trip, check if your accommodation will store you luggage for you.